Aadhaar, the unique identification document for Indians, has been in the highlights since the time the government was attempting to link it with almost everything. This has raised questions regarding the privacy and security of individuals. The Supreme Court resolved this concern by asking UIDAI to introduce offline Aadhaar data verification, where biometrics and 12-digit unique Aadhaar number will not be needed. Under this service, Aadhaar cardholder will have to share an XML document generated from the UIDAI resident portal. This document will contain the name and address of the individual and any of these optional data- Gender, DOB, Photo, Mobile number and E-mail address.
As per Supreme Court’s verdict, Aadhaar cannot be mandated for verification in any private firms. The customer shall be given the choice to consider both Aadhaar as well as non-Aadhaar options. IDs that qualify for non-Aadhaar KYC choices are Voter’s Card, PAN Card, Passport, Driving License, Ration Card etc. Even for the Aadhaar verification, application must consider both online and offline variants of KYC.
Offline authentication of Aadhaar data can be done via any of the following 2 ways
As per UIDAI’s directions, a digitally signed XML file can be generated from their forum. This secure sharable document can be used later by any Aadhaar number holder to verify their identity offline. The file will not contain the 12-digit unique Aadhaar number, but only other non-sensitive data like name, address, date of birth, e-mail etc. of the individual. Following is the detailed XML file generation process:
Use of Offline Aadhaar Data Verification Service by Service Providers
Secure QR code is a type of barcode label that will contain the statistical information and photograph of the Aadhaar holder. This protected information can only be read by special scanners thus preventing tampering of the documents. It will thus allow offline authentication of one’s identity without revealing the Aadhaar number. Using the UIDAI’s web portal or mobile app, Aadhaar holders can download and print their biometric ID which will also contain the QR code.
To use the QR code, a service provider will have to use a scanner that can read the code on Aadhar card or download a QR code reader from UIDAI web portal. On successful verification, the extracted data will be available in application.
e-Aadhaar is a password secured PDF file of Aadhaar, which is digitally signed by the UIDAI authority. To avail e-Aadhaar, user must visit the URL: eaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/ In the screen, they must provide the mandatory details like Aadhaar ID, Full Name, Pin Code, Security Code and OTP received on the registered mobile number. Click on ‘Download Aadhaar’ to get the electronic copy. The user also has an option to go for masked Aadhaar feature where the first 8 digits are crypted. Customers can use hard copy of regular or masked Aadhaar which contains the updated QR code to share demographic details with the service provider.
Similarly, m-Aadhaar application allows one to generate the m-Aadhaar digital form on the registered mobile number. This feature is available for Android mobile users only on Google Play Store. A password is to be set for the security of data. OTP will be directly read by the application, on its arrival. To fetch data, user must enter Aadhaar number or scan QR code on Aadhaar card. Once the details are fetched, they are available in mAadhaar app as a virtual card. Customers can share their KYC details using the mAadhaar app or get Aadhaar data by scanning QR code available on the page via in-app QR code reader.
Apart from Aadhaar Card, following documents are totally valid for KYC in banking and other sectors:
Offline Aadhar data authentication ensures that the user’s privacy is respected and UIDAI will have no knowledge of their use. The government will not be aware if you have used your Aadhaar card to open bank account or buy Sim or purchase an insurance. Also, you can now keep a check on the amount of information you wish to share with your service providers. Only, name and address are part of the mandatory data sharing.
How can I link my mobile number with Aadhar card offline and online?
Linking mobile number with Aadhaar card is mandatory. For people who are linking the two for the first time, it has to be done offline. They have to visit nearby Aadhaar Kendra and get the same connected. Online updation of mobile number can be done via UIDAI Online Update Portal. Enter the Aadhaar Card number and request for OTP. Make necessary changes in the next screen and submit the request for modification. An URN will be provided to track the status of this request.
How many mobile numbers can be linked to Aadhar offline?
You can link maximum of 9 SIM connections per person from each operator with a single Aadhaar Number.
How can I check whether my SIM is linked with Aadhar?
To check that your SIM is linked with Aadhaar, you can call the Customer care and ask the same. For this, you will be need to provide Aadhaar number and mobile number. You can also visit nearby retailer shop and enquire the same. If your mobile number is not linked with Aadhaar, you must be receiving SMS regularly from the operator.
How can I unlock my biometric Aadhar card?
To unlock biometric Aadhar data, visit the UIDAI web portal. Enter the Aadhaar number and Security Code visible on the screen. Generate an OTP and enter the same to verify. Uncheck ‘Enable Biometric Locking’ and select Disable radio button to unlock the card.
How can I print my Aadhar card offline?
Visit nearby Aadhaar Enrolment Centre to get a print of your Aadhaar Card. You may have to fill a form and get your information and biometrics verified. There are various ways to get your Aadhaar card online- via the UIDAI portal, mAadhaar app etc.
What is URN number?
URN stands for Unique Request Number. This number is generated online when you submit your Aadhaar card for modification. It acts as a reference to track the update process of your Aadhaar Card.
